Women united in a day of conversation

Women all over the globe celebrated International Women’s Day in a variety of different ways and Mount Isa was no different on Thursday.

A large group of people converged on the Copper City Mount Isa QCWA hall to listen to guest speaker, Tania Nugent - a television host, presenter, journalist and lobbyist for domestic violence at the Sharing is Caring morning tea.

Ms Nugent said she was here to start the conversation.

“We want to create a non-judgemental space to encourage conversation which also means listening.”

Ms Nugent shared her life experience which included racism, post-natal depression and domestic violence.

“Tears welled in my eyes on Christmas Day while sitting at the table for dinner with my family. I felt so alone.”

“What I’m trying to get across to you is – you can be surrounded by people and feel totally isolated but on the other hand you can be totally isolated and feel great because you have a voice.”

Women's Health Queensland Wide Health (WHOW) Educator Cheryl Hawkins said the event was to help raise awareness that you are never alone and that we care about you.

“We are from Brisbane but we have a telephone service and the connection is instant so pick up the telephone and share your feelings and thoughts with us when you're having a bad day,” Ms Hawkins said.

According to the CEO of WHOW Caroline Cuckson 20% of their service users come from Mount Isa.

“One out of five Australians suffer from mental illness and 20% of woman suffer from postnatal depression so it's important to reach out to our organisation,” Ms Cuckson said.

The Sharing is Caring morning tea was the first even in the International Women’s Day calendar for Mount Isa with the Zonta Women’s awards the next.

The awards will be held at the Buchanan Park Complex on Saturday night with special guest speaker Kristy Shepherd.